Work functioning is an important component of overall well being, particularly for individuals managing symptoms of depression. The Lam Employment Absence and Productivity Scale (LEAPS) is a brief, self rated questionnaire that evaluates both absenteeism and productivity while at work. It helps clinicians understand the degree to which symptoms may be affecting occupational performance and whether changes in treatment or workplace support may be needed.
This resource page explains how the LEAPS works, what kinds of workplace difficulties it assesses, and how clinicians can use the results to guide management decisions. Because the scale focuses specifically on paid work, it offers a targeted view of occupational functioning that can complement broader symptom assessments.
A downloadable PDF of the Lam Employment Absence and Productivity Scale is available for clinicians using the download resource button above.
Understanding How the LEAPS Works
The LEAPS is a ten item, patient completed scale that takes approximately three to five minutes to finish. According to page 1 of the PDF, the questions were selected to reflect the symptoms that most strongly influence work productivity in individuals with depression and the most common work-related challenges reported in clinical practice. Items include the number of hours worked, the number of hours missed, and how often specific work difficulties occurred, such as low energy, poor concentration, irritability, getting less work done, doing poor quality work, making mistakes, or having trouble interacting with others. Response options range from none of the time to all of the time, corresponding to percentages from 0 percent to 100 percent.
Total scores range from 0 to 28 and correspond to five impairment categories: none to minimal (0 to 5), mild (6 to 10), moderate (11 to 16), severe (17 to 22), and very severe (23 to 28). As shown on page 2, these categories help clinicians quickly gauge the degree of work impairment and determine whether additional evaluation, workplace accommodation, or treatment adjustments may be appropriate. The LEAPS can be used at regular intervals, such as every four weeks, to monitor whether work functioning is improving alongside symptom reduction. Full scoring details and item descriptions can be reviewed in the downloadable resource using the download resource button above.
“Validated tools that assess occupational functioning allow clinicians to make informed decisions about work capacity, safety, and treatment planning.”
— National Institute of Mental Health
This structured approach helps clinicians differentiate between symptom improvement and functional recovery, which may progress at different rates. The LEAPS supports clear documentation of functional outcomes and may reduce the need for lengthy chart notes describing work-related performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Symptoms such as fatigue, poor concentration, slowed thinking, irritability, and reduced motivation often interfere with productivity and workplace interactions. These challenges may be subtle at first but can accumulate over time. Recognizing early signs helps clinicians intervene before work functioning declines further.
Workplace stress can exacerbate depressive symptoms, making it harder to stay focused, complete tasks, or maintain consistent performance. Stress may also increase irritability or reduce patience in workplace interactions. Addressing stressors can help improve both mood and functioning.
Functional impairment refers to how symptoms affect daily life, including work performance. Symptoms may improve faster than functioning, or vice versa. Clinicians use patient report, clinical interviews, and functioning scales to build a more complete picture.
Treatment may include psychotherapy, workplace accommodations, skill building strategies, and medication classes such as antidepressants when appropriate. A comprehensive approach that targets both symptoms and functioning can lead to improved workplace performance.
Many individuals continue working successfully while addressing depressive symptoms. However, some may benefit from modified duties, schedule adjustments, or short term leave. Collaborative decision making helps ensure safety and supports long term recovery.
Conclusion
The Lam Employment Absence and Productivity Scale is a practical tool for assessing how depressive symptoms affect work attendance and productivity. Its brief, self rated format makes it easy to administer during routine visits and offers valuable insights that clinicians can use to guide treatment decisions and workplace planning. The combination of absenteeism and on the job productivity metrics provides a clear picture of occupational functioning.
Using the LEAPS allows clinicians to monitor changes over time and determine whether improvements in symptoms are translating into better functioning at work. The downloadable resource includes the complete questionnaire and scoring rubric using the download resource button above. The Lam Employment Absence and Productivity Scale supports effective communication, informed decision making, and comprehensive functional assessment.
The Lam Employment Absence and Productivity Scale helps clinicians evaluate work-related functioning, guide treatment strategies, and support recovery in working adults with depression.